Memory Module Thermocouple Integration for Temperature Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing memory modules lack effective temperature measurement capabilities, particularly for temperature-sensitive DRAMs, which is crucial for system reliability.

Innovation Solution

A memory module with a thermocouple coupled to contact points on a module substrate, integrated with a temperature sensor that generates temperature information, allowing for accurate temperature measurement of memory devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If temperature measurement capability is added to memory module, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the temperature sensing function with the existing contact points on the module substrate. The thermocouple is integrated into the contact points structure, allowing temperature measurement without adding separate independent components. This merging approach enables temperature monitoring capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity by utilizing existing structural elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The contact points on the module substrate are given dual functionality: they serve both as electrical connection points for memory devices and as temperature sensing elements through the integrated thermocouple. This multi-functionality allows the same structural element to perform multiple roles, thereby improving system reliability through temperature monitoring without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If thermocouple is integrated into contact points, then temperature measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature measurement precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The thermocouple is integrated directly into the contact points during the manufacturing process, combining two functional elements into a single unified structure. This integration allows temperature measurement at the exact location of electrical contact, improving measurement precision while reducing the number of separate manufacturing steps and component assembly operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The thermocouple is prepared and positioned within the contact points structure before the memory devices are mounted on the module substrate. This preliminary integration ensures that the temperature sensing elements are already in place and properly configured, simplifying the overall manufacturing process by eliminating subsequent assembly steps and ensuring precise thermal coupling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables reliable temperature monitoring of memory devices, enhancing the system's reliability by providing precise temperature data to external devices.

Implementation Method 1

a thermocouple coupled to at least one contact point among the plurality of contact points

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSeebeck effect: Seebeck Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10163464B2Memory module capable of measuring temperature and system using the same
Publication Date: 2018.12.25 SK HYNIX INC
  • US10163464B2 patent drawing
  • US10163464B2 patent drawing
  • US10163464B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory module may be provided. The memory module may include a thermocouple and a temperature sensor. The thermocouple may be coupled to at least one contact point among a plurality of contact points formed on a region, on which a memory device may be configured to be mounted. The temperature sensor may be coupled to the thermocouple, and may be configured to generate temperature information.